As part of the Government of Yukon's ongoing efforts under the Yukon's Health Human Resources Strategy to recruit, retain, and develop health care professionals in the territory, the Government of Yukon has partnered with the University of New Brunswick (UNB) to offer UNB's "Learn Where You Live" program to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in the Yukon. This unique pathway program allows LPNs to continue working in the Yukon while pursuing a Bachelor of Nursing degree (BN) through virtual learning.
The Government of Yukon is making this program more accessible by covering one-third of the costs of tuition fees for all Yukon participants. Upon completion, graduates will qualify to be registered nurses, helping to meet the growing demand for health care professionals in the Yukon.
As part of the program, students and faculty will use virtual reality simulation scenarios combined with in-person clinical simulation and client care for their clinical learning experiences. This approach blends remote theory courses with virtual simulations, allowing students to further their education while continuing to work and with minimal disruption to their personal lives.
This cutting-edge program was developed by UNB. It uses technology to meet students where they are, which makes health care education more accessible to everyone. The program is active in several communities in New Brunswick, in India and now the Yukon.
The first cohort of 17 Yukon licensed practical nurses began the program in September 2024, with a second cohort of up to 20 LPNs set to begin in fall 2025.
This program provides a significant opportunity for local nurses to advance their careers while staying connected to their communities and families. By supporting initiatives for licensed practical nurses to become registered nurses (RNs), the Government of Yukon is addressing the urgent need for skilled health care workers in the territory, while also enhancing the quality of care available to Yukoners.
This initiative represents a key step forward in the Government of Yukon's broader plan to strengthen the Yukon's health care system by developing local expertise and ensuring Yukoners have access to high-quality, person-centered care.
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In Canada, licensed practical nurses provide basic patient care after completing a two-to-three-year program, while registered nurses manage more complex care and require a four-year university degree.
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The Government of Yukon will pay one third of tuition costs for all students.
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Employers are encouraged to pay one third of the costs, with students covering the remaining one third. Government of Yukon employees can apply through the Public Service Commission's learning development fund and Yukon Hospital employees can apply through their employer for the additional one third.
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There is a return in service expected. Graduating nurses are expected to work as a registered nurse within the public services sector such as the Government of Yukon, Kwanlin Dün Health Centre or the Yukon Hospital Corporation after graduation.
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UNB's faculty of nursing partnered with Spatial Computing Education, Training and Research Laboratory (SPECTRAL) on the virtual reality component of the program. SPECTRAL is an applied research centre within UNB's faculty of computer science.
